In the past, a common concern for anyone booking a shipment – especially for time-sensitive cargo – was uncertainty that all the necessary elements would be aligned. It was not uncommon to have space available on a vessel sailing to the right port at the right time, only to be unable to reserve an empty container – while at other times, containers would be plentiful, but space on board unavailable. Typically, bookings with ocean carriers would be subject to the availability of space or of container equipment, and quoted rates would not include surcharges.  

These uncertainties over space and equipment availability left the status of many shipments, and the level of surcharges to be applied, in doubt, often leading to cancelled or rescheduled bookings, particularly at busy times, causing a lot of additional work and inconvenience for all parties concerned. Furthermore, failure to meet expected delivery schedules can lead to business interruptions, lost profits and disappointed end customers. 

Now these worries are a thing of the past. OOCL’s innovative online platform FreightSmart takes the uncertainty out of logistics booking with E-Spot – locking in rates with space and equipment protection, to make everything easy for you.  

Enter your requirements into the system, and E-Spot will automatically match up vessel and equipment availability to present you with quotations that fit your needs. Rates – including applicable surcharges, sailing dates, terms and conditions are all clearly laid out. To keep your supply chain flowing smoothly, simply confirm which quotation you accept, and rates, space and equipment will all be locked in from the moment your order is confirmed.

Once an order is placed, you have a time window of 24 hours for submission of bookings. During this period, you may amend order details such as a change of equipment (where available). For further flexibility, a booking may be cancelled without penalty within 24 hours. The entire process is quick and straightforward, and confirmation is instant.

For additional freedom from uncertainty, FreightSmart’s tracking function keeps you informed about your order status at every step of the shipping process. A clear shipment tracking system covers the shipment’s entire route including all the loading and discharge stops, and takes the timeline into account.

Additionally, FreightSmart offers you a range of other benefits, from convenient trucking options to discounts and special offers for frequent customers. Sign up now for FreightSmart to free yourself from worry and leave uncertainty behind!